Modern Xiaomi smartphones are equipped with a built-in scanning tool QR-The Scanner app replaces individual code recognition software and makes everyday tasks from paying for purchases to keeping contacts much easier. However, many users are unaware of its capabilities or face difficulties in the first run.
In this article, we will discuss all the features of the Scanner app on Xiaomi, including hidden settings, solving typical problems and alternative scanning methods. You will learn how to quickly open the scanner from the lock screen, save scanned documents to the user. PDF, And why sometimes the camera doesn't see» QR-The instructions are relevant for all models on MIUI 12–14 HyperOS, including Redmi Note 12/13, POCO X5, Xiaomi 13/14 others.
Where is the scanner in the Xiaomi phone?
The Scanner app is pre-installed on all Xiaomi smartphones with MIUI or HyperOS. You can find it in several ways:
- 🔍 Through System Search: Swipe down the main screen and type “Scanner” in the search bar.
- 📱 In the app menu: the scanner icon is usually located in the Tools or Utilities folder (on some models – on the main screen).
- 📷 Through the camera: Open the standard Camera app, go to Additional (or More) mode and select Scanner».
If the icon is not available, check if the application is accidentally deleted. You can restore it through Settings. → Annexes → Application management → Established → Three points (⋮) → Show system-based → Scanner. Press "Enable" if it's disabled.
The main functions of the application "Scanner"
The built-in scanner in Xiaomi supports not only the QR-And it's codes, but it's also different types of data:
| Function | Description | Example of use |
|---|---|---|
| QR-code | Recognition of static and dynamic codes, including links, Wi-Fi, contacts. | Pay in-store, connect to the network, add a friend to WeChat. |
| Barcodes | Reading EAN-8/13, UPC-A, Code 39/93/128. | Verification of the authenticity of the goods, search for prices on the Internet. |
| Documents | Scan passports, receipts, book pages with PDF/JPG saving. | Digitize checks, create copies of documents for sending. |
| Text (OCR) | Recognition of printed text (requires an Internet connection). | Copying text from a poster or book. |
Important: OCR (text recognition) is only available on models with a Snapdragon 6xx/7xx/8xx processor and the current version of MIUI. On budget devices (for example, Redmi 10A), it may not be available.
⚠️ Note: When scanning documents with personal data (passports, driver's license), the application may suggest uploading them to the Mi Cloud. Disable this option in the settings if you do not want to store copies on Xiaomi servers.
Step-by-step instructions: how to scan QR-code
The most popular scanner function is reading. QR-Here's how to do it right:
- Open the Scanner app or use quick access through the notification bar (swipe down from the top edge of the screen and find the scanner icon).
- Put the camera on QR-code so that it fits fully into the frame on the screen. 10 to 30 cm.
- Wait for a vibration or audible signal, which means that the code is recognized.
- Click on the link that appears or follow the suggested action (for example, connect to Wi-Fi).
Check the lighting (code should be clearly visible)
Clean the camera of dirt or prints
Make sure the code is not damaged (no blur, scratches)
Restart the scanner application-->
If the code contains a link to the site, the smartphone will prompt you to open it in the browser. URL Before the transition – scammers often mask malicious links as legitimate ones QR-code.
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To quickly open the scanner from the lock screen, add it to the quick action panel: Settings → Lock screen → Shortcuts → Scanner
Scanning and saving documents in PDF
The document scanning feature is useful for digitizing receipts, contracts, or pages of books. Here's how to use it:
- Open the Scanner and select the Document tab (or Doc in English).
- Point the camera at the document. The app will automatically highlight the boundaries of the sheet with a yellow frame.
- Press the capture button to take a picture. Adjust the angles manually if necessary.
- Repeat for the rest of the pages, then click "Done".
- Select the save format: PDF (for documents) or JPG (for images).
The finished file will be saved in the Scanner folder in the phone’s internal memory, and for convenience, you can send it directly via the messenger or cloud:
- 📤 Send: Click on the Share icon and select the app (Telegram, WhatsApp, Email).
- ☁️ Save to the Cloud: Select Mi Cloud, Google Drive, or Yandex Disk.
- 🖨️ Printing: If you have a Wi-Fi printer, you can print the document directly.
⚠️ Note: When scanning a passport or other identity card in PDF This is done to protect against counterfeiting, but can cause questions when sending documents to government agencies).
Solving problems with the scanner on Xiaomi
Sometimes the Scanner app doesn't work properly, so let's look at the common bugs and how to fix them:
| Problem. | Possible cause | Decision |
|---|---|---|
| The scanner won't open. | Application disabled or removed | Include it in Settings → Applications → Scanner |
| QR-code is unrecognizable | Poor lighting or dirty camera | Wipe the camera, turn on the flashlight, or use an external light source. |
| Documents remain blurred | Trembling of the hands or low resolution | Use a tripod or turn on Stabilization mode in the camera settings |
| No OCR (Text Recognition) function | An outdated version of MIUI or a weak processor | Update your software or use third-party apps (e.g. Google Lens) |
If the scanner stopped working after the MIUI update, try the following steps:
- Clear the app cache: Settings → Apps → Scanner → Storage → Clear the cache.
- Reset the application settings: in the same menu, click “Reset Settings”.
- Restart your phone in Safe Mode (press the power button → “Reboot Safe Mode”) and check if the scanner is working.
What if the scanner disappeared after resetting?
Alternative ways to scan on Xiaomi
If the built-in scanner does not suit, you can use other methods:
- 📸 Using Google Camera: Install Google Lens from Play Market. QR-codes, text and objects with additional functions (translation, search for similar images).
- 🔗 Browser extensions: in Chrome or Mi Browser you can add a widget for scanning QR-codes directly from the address bar.
- 💡 Third-party annexes: QR & Barcode Scanner (no ad, fast) CamScanner (for advanced filter documents) Kaspersky QR Scanner (checks links to viruses)
For maximum security when scanning payment QR-The codes are recommended to use official applications of banks (for example, Sberbank Online or Tinkoff), which automatically verify the authenticity of the codes and block fraudulent transactions.
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Xiaomi’s built-in scanner is suitable for most tasks, but for professional document digitization (for example, for work or study), it is better to use specialized applications with manual contrast and sharpness adjustment.
Hidden chips of the scanner on Xiaomi
Few people know, but the Scanner app has a few hidden features that make it easier to work:
- 🔦 Flashlight scanning: if the code is not visible, click on the flashlight icon in the upper right corner of the scanner screen.
- 📋 Scan history: all scanned codes and documents are saved in history (available through three dots) ⋮ You can quickly open the link or resend the file from there.
- 🔄 Automatic copying: in the scanner settings (Settings) → Scanner. → Autocopying can be enabled by automatically copying text from QR-codeboard.
- 🌐 Translation QR-codes: if the code contains text in a foreign language, hold your finger on the recognized text and select Translate (Internet required).
On HyperOS models (such as Xiaomi 14 or Redmi K70), the scanner is integrated with artificial intelligence. It automatically improves the quality of scanned documents by removing shadows and distortions. To enable this feature, go to Scanner Settings → Smart Improvement.